PRESTON'S injury crisis - and curse of the left-back position - could pave the way to a full contract for Rob Edwards.

The Welsh international has impressed manager David Moyes by filling in for the injured Ryan Kidd (thigh), Adam Eaton (toe) and Dominic Ludden (groin).

Ludden limped off the pitch during the second half of the match at Boundary Park last Saturday.

But Edwards filled the position more than ably in the 1-0 win over Wrexham in Tuesday night's Worthington Cup encounter.

And his ability to play in midfield and defence has fueled speculation even further that he will be offered a permanent deal at Deepdale.

French trial Farid Diaf will have his contract extended after tearing a groin muscle during training. He is expected to be out for three months - the length of time he has signed for with the club - and will be given the chance to prove himself after he has recovered.

Other injury problems for the game against Stoke at Deepdale on Saturday include long-term knee-victim Gary Parkinson and Lee Cartwright (knee).

Paul Morgan has been called up to the U21 Northern Ireland Squad to play France, but looks set to miss the match due to severe bruising of a toe.

But teammate Colin Murdoch could see some international action after being put on stand-by for the full Northern Ireland squad, also facing France.

Argentinian Nicky Taglane was due to play his first match for North End last night as the reserves took on Tranmere at Bamber Bridge for the opening match of the Pontins League.

The winger was denied an outing in the pre-season by the torrential rain and thunderstorm at the Reebok stadium which saw the match abandoned.

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